MultiChoice group marked a triumphant evening at this year’s South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs 17) held at the Gallagher Convention Centre. Echoing the group’s commitment to celebrating African stories and talent, MultiChoice Group dominated both evenings by scooping a total of 45 awards.

Among the highlights, Lavish was recognised as the Best TV Drama, and Gaia secured its spot with the Best Feature Film Award while Legacy took home the Best Telenovela Award. For her role in the popular Showmax comedy Tali’s Joburg Diary, Kate Normington won her second SAFTA, making the total of Showmax wins 10. James Bothwick took his third SAFTA as best actor in a comedy for the character Ferdie in Hotel,

Host for the night and the face of Big Brother Mzansi Lawrence Maleka exemplified his exceptional talent by winning Best Actor in a Telenovela for his role as Zolani in The River. The awards were broadcast live on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161).

Nomsa Philiso, CEO: General Entertainment for the MultiChoice Group, celebrated the victories and congratulated all the winners, saying, “Tonight, more than ever, the MultiChoice group and all our beloved titles and brands reaffirmed our position as the true home of entertainment, our commitment to providing a stage for African storytellers to shine has never been stronger. Their narratives, their passion, and their talent are what drive us to excel.”

In a poignant moment of the evening, Derek Watts, a stalwart in South African television and investigative journalism, was honoured with the Lifetime Achiever Award, posthumously. Watts’ impactful 35-year tenure on M-Net’s Carte Blancheexemplifies the profound influence of media on creating a more informed and just society.

All the big winners!

Wins across MultiChoice Group on the second night include:

• Best Supporting Actor in a Telenovela: Thulani Mtsweni, Gomora
• Best Actor in a Telenovela: Lawrence Maleka, The River
• Best Supporting Actor in a Telenovela: Deli Malinga – Redemption
• Best Supporting Actress in a TV comedy: Kate Normington, Tali’s Joburg Diary
• Best TV Drama: Lavish
• Best Supporting Actress in a TV Soap: Odelle De Wet, Binnelanders
• Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soap: Charlie Bouguenon, Binnelanders
• Best Actress in a TV Soap: Cindy Swanepoel, Binnelanders
• Best Actor in a TV Comedy: James Borthwick, Hotel Season 5
• Best Actor in a Feature Film: Jarrid Geduld, Indemnity
• Best Achievement in Directing – Feature Film: Gaia
• Best Feature Film: Gaia
• Best Actress in a Telenovela: Michelle Botes, Legacy
• Best Telenovela: Legacy
• Best TV Presenter – Tshegofatso Mosupye (Public Vote)

Additional wins at the SAFTAs Craft Awards on Friday 29 September includes Best Youth Programme for Trend Season 1, Best International Format for Survivor South Africa: Return of the Outcasts, and more.

By consistently shining the spotlight on local talent and narratives, the MultiChoice group solidifies its standing as the core of South African entertainment, connecting stories and audiences.

The full list of MultiChoice winners:

Craft Awards:

• Best Entertainment Programme: Miss South Africa 2022 Live Finale
• Best Variety Show: Sunday Sexy Love
• Best Achievement in Scriptwriting – Telenovela: DiepCity Season 2

• Best Achievement in Wardrobe – TV Drama: Lavish

• Best Youth Programme: Trend Season 1
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Art Direction – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Cinematography – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV Soap/Telenovela: Suidooster
• Best Achievement in Editing – TV/Soap or Telenovela: Diepe Waters
• Best Achievement in Directing – Soap: Erina Niemand, Shirley Ellis, Romano Gorlei & Richard September forSuidooster
• Best Achievement in Original Music/Score – Feature Film: Pierre-Henri Wicomb for Gaia
• Best Achievement in Cinematography – Feature Film: Jorrie van der Walt for Gaia

• Best Current Affairs Programme: Mining Takedown
• Best Natural History and Environmental: Crocodiles Revealed
• Best Children’s Programme: NickMusic Africa
• Best International Format: Survivor South Africa: Return of the Outcasts
• Best Educational Programme: MTVShuga: What Makes a Man
• Best Achievement in Make-Up and Hairstyling – TV Drama: Desert Rose
• Best Achievement in Art Direction – TV Soap/Telenovela: Legacy
• Best Lifestyle Programme: Homegrown tastes South Africa season 1
• Best Structured Soapie Reality Show: Life with Kelly Khumalo Season 3
• Best Structured Or Docu-Reality Show: Sex in Afrikaans
• Best Achievement in Wardrobe – TV Comedy: Tali’s Joburg Diary
• Best Achievement in Scriptwriting – TV Comedy: Julia Anastasopoulos, Ari Kruger, Gilli Apter, & Daniel Zimbler for Tali’s Joburg Diary
• Best Achievement in Directing – TV Comedy: Ari Kruger for Tali’s Joburg Diary
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV Drama: Jozua Loots for Donkerbos
• Best Achievement in Cinematography – TV Drama: Willie Nel for Blood Psalms
• Best Achievement in Directing – TV Drama: Nico Scheepers for Donkerbos

The first of two glamorous evenings, where the South African film and television industry come together to honour the hard work and dedication to the craft of storytelling, commenced in Johannesburg on Friday evening.

Multichoice has once again showcased their exceptional commitment to quality and creativity by scooping a raft of awards at this year’s South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) 17 craft awards ceremony. The prestigious event took place on Friday, 29 September at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg.

Leading the pack were productions from kykNET, M-Net, Mzansi Magic, and 1Magic. Notable shows such as the final season of the popular Hotel, Survivor South Africa: Return of the Outcasts, and DiepCity Season 2 were among the many that were recognised for their outstanding achievements.

Blood Psalms took home the award for Best Achievement in Cinematography, while The Wife Season 3 triumphed in the category of Best Achievement in Directing for Telenovela. Showmax also emerged victorious in key categories such as Best Achievement in Directing Telenovela (The Wife), Best Structured or Docu-Reality Show (Sex in Afrikaans), Best Structured Soapie Reality Show (Life With Kelly Khumalo Season 3).

Highlight of Wins Include:

• Best Entertainment Programme: Miss South Africa 2022 Live Finale
• Best Variety Show: Sunday Sexy Love
• Best Achievement in Scriptwriting – Telenovela: DiepCity Season 2

• Best Achievement in Wardrobe – TV Drama: Lavish

• Best Youth Programme: Trend Season 1
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Art Direction – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Cinematography – TV Comedy: Hotel Season 5
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV Soap/Telenovela: Suidooster
• Best Achievement in Editing – TV/Soap or Telenovela: Diepe Waters
• Best Achievement in Directing – Soap: Erina Niemand, Shirley Ellis, Romano Gorlei & Richard September forSuidooster
• Best Achievement in Original Music/Score – Feature Film: Pierre-Henri Wicomb for Gaia
• Best Achievement in Cinematography – Feature Film: Jorrie van der Walt for Gaia

• Best Current Affairs Programme: Mining Takedown
• Best International Format: Survivor South Africa: Return of the Outcasts
• Best Achievement in Make-Up and Hairstyling – TV Drama: Desert Rose
• Best Achievement in Art Direction – TV Soap/Telenovela: Legacy
• Best Achievement in Sound – TV drama (Donkerbos) Jozua loots
• Best Achievement in Directing – TV Drama (Donkerbos) Nico Scheepers

With the SAFTAs main awards on the horizon, audiences are invited to tune in and experience the grandeur of South African television and film. The red-carpet event begins Saturday 30 October at 19:30 on Channel O (DStv Channel 320), followed by the main show at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161).

M-Net invites families to engage in open conversations, challenge perceptions and celebrate connections as we get to know Gen Z’s perspectives, lifestyles, and motivations 

Prepare yourself for an engaging adventure as we unravel the enigmatic world of Gen Z in this insightful mini-docu series,Habits of Gen Z. Premiering on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) on Thursday, 9 November 2023 at 21:00, this interesting exploration of Gen Z’s lives, influences, and aspirations fosters intergenerational dialogue and understanding.

Waldimar Pelser, M-Net’s Director for Premium Channels says: “This is a truly innovative and dynamic generation. Habits of Gen Z is a captivating docu-series that will challenge our perceptions and hopefully start a conversation that will foster understanding between different generations. It’s an eye-opening experience that will spark meaningful discourse within families. By bridging the gap through sharing this docu-series, as a channel we hope to encourage families to come together, learn from each other, and celebrate what connects us all.”

Throughout this riveting series, you can expect vibrant thought starters:

Episode 1: Raised By The Internet

Plunge headfirst into online culture, where Gen Z embraces the internet’s opportunities and challenges. This episode will unmask the digital realm and explore the intriguing topics of technology, cybercrime and how social media has shaped the way Gen Z sees the world and themselves.

Episode 2: Sex Exploration in the Digital Age

This episode is a thrilling journey into Gen Z’s ever-evolving exploration of relationships and sexuality in the digital realm. Witness the exhilarating highs and challenging lows as this generation navigates sex and intimacy complexities.

Episode 3: Substance Use & Abuse

Prepare to confront the realities of substance use and abuse as we delve into Gen Z’s encounters with drugs and alcohol. Peer into the hidden corners as Habits of Gen Z shines a light on the challenges faced by this generation, from illegal and prescription drugs to alcohol, smoking, and even psychedelic medicine.

Episode 4: Identity and Expression

Celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Gen Z’s diverse identities and expressions. Step into a world where LGBTQIA+ rights, ethnic and cultural identity, and the power of self-expression take centre stage. Marvel at the courage and resilience of this generation as they assert their individuality and challenge societal norms.

Episode 5: The End of the World… As We Know It

Discover Gen Z’s role in shaping the future. Examine the urgent issues of climate change, intersectional activism, and society’s evolving landscape. Witness firsthand how this generation is fearlessly taking a stand and leading the charge for a better world.

Directed by renowned South African filmmaker and former CNN journalist Jo Munnik, Habits of GenZ brings together a diverse group of voices and experts who share their insights and experiences. Engage with thought leaders such as Ronen Aires, founder and CEO of Student Village; Bronwyn Williams, Futurist and Business Trends Analyst; Dr. Eve, a leading Sexologist; Casey Delport, Gen Z Writer for Bubblegum Club magazine; Cassandra Roxburgh, Gen Z transgender freelance journalist; and Lindiwe Mngxitama, Editor of Bubblegum Club magazine.

Don’t miss the stimulating Habits of Gen Z premiere on Thursday, 9 November 2023 at 21:00 on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) – The Home of Entertainment. You can also live-stream on DStv Stream, and DStv Catch Up after broadcast. Visit the M-Net Website and join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.

Viewers’ Thursday nights just got better with a new season of a TV fan favourite and two fresh shows airing one after the other. Starting 28 September, every Thursday will see six-time Emmy Award Winner Law & Order, topical crime anthologyAccused and tense political drama The Undeclared War air at 19:00, 20:00 and 21:00 on M-Net (DStv Channel 101).

Law & Order season 22 

Kicking things off at 19:00 is Law & Order back for its 22nd season – a show that’s cemented in popular culture and the longest-running police procedural in television history.

This season will see the detectives of the NYPD’s Manhattan Homicide Squad investigate a deadly subway shooting, the murder of a young author, and the death of a politician’s daughter. Meanwhile, the lawyers of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office must balance their pursuit of justice with the demands of the legal system.

Here are some fast facts about Law & Order:

• As mentioned, Law & Order has been running for a long time. It ended its 20th season in 2010 and returned in 2022 – an 11-year hiatus!
• The show continues to influence pop culture. This year, a TikTok dance based on the Law & Order theme tune went viral.
• TV Guide ranked it among their “50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time;”
• The show has won six Emmys and was nominated for three Golden Globes, among dozens of other accolades.
• It’s spawned six spinoffs, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Trial by Jury, Law & Order: Los Angeles, Law & Order True Crime, and Law & Order: Organized Crime as well as a television film Exiled: A Law & Order Movie.

Accused

At 20:00, viewers can catch Accused – based on BBC’s 2010 BAFTA-winning crime anthology of the same name. It was a big hit in the UK with viewers and critics. The show features a new case and cast every episode for viewers to unravel, so those into twists and turns should get ready to play detective. It stars talented actors including Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine) and episodes are directed by Billy Porter (Pose) and Marlee Matlin (The L Word), among others.

Each episode opens in a courtroom on a defendant, with viewers knowing nothing about their crime or how circumstances led to their prosecution. Unlike most courtroom shows where the prosecutor takes the spotlight, this drama is told from the defendant’s point of view.

Viewers discover how ordinary people can find themselves in an extraordinary situation, ultimately revealing how one wrong turn leads to another until it’s too late to turn back.

The Undeclared War

Rounding out the night at 21:00 is The Undeclared War, a new series created by BAFTA-Award Winning creator Peter Kosminsky. This six-part drama is set in 2024 and tells the story of a group of British intelligence analysts who have the task of tracking and countering a series of Russian cyber-attacks in the run-up to the UK general election.

Saara Parvin (portrayed by Hannah Khalique-Brown) starts a work experience placement at GCHQ, the UK’s intelligence and security agency. On her first day, she witnesses a routine stress test of the country’s internet infrastructure go awry, taking down a significant portion of the internet. It’s revealed that a foreign power deliberately carried out the attack.

As Saara and her colleagues race to stop the attack, they face the challenges of fighting a war that’s taking place in the digital realm. The rules constantly change, and the enemy is always one step ahead. The stakes are high, as the attack could devastate the UK’s economy and infrastructure. But how do you win a war most of the public don’t know you’re fighting?

The series was developed through meticulous research over five years by Kosminsky and has been lauded for its realism and timely subject matter.

Viewers who liked Mr. Robot, Black Mirror, 24 and Homeland will enjoy this tightly wound political drama.

M-Net (DStv channel 101) is the home of the best in international entertainment. All shows will be live-streamed on DStv Stream and are available on DStv Catch Up. Visit the M-Net Website  and join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.